Synthesis and characterisation of nanocomposite materials prepared by dispersion of functional TiO2nanoparticles in PMMA matrix

Abstract

Composite powders and thin films composed of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and functionalised titania nanoparticles are successfully prepared by in situ bulk co-polymerisation using benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as the initiator. The functionalised titania nanoparticles are synthesised by an arrested hydrolysis of Ti(OiPr)₄ with either undecylenic (UA) or undecenylphosphonic (UPA) acids used as the organic templates with the long hydrocarbon chains and functional (terminal double bond) groups. Surface-modified TiO₂ nanoparticles could be easily dispersed in organic solvent due to the long hydrocarbon chain surrounding the titanium core, and engaged as a co-monomer in polymerisation with the MMA due to the presence of a terminal double bond. TEM and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) data presented support the homogeneous and consistent distribution of inorganic phase within the PMMA matrix, with the larger titania nanoparticles detected when the UPA was employed to modify a TiO₂ nanoparticle. This is attributed to the UPA greater binding affinity towards the TiO₂ surfaces and therefore particles aggregation to some extent.